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Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 56mmFocal Plane: First (FFP)Tube Diameter: 34mmAdjustment Value: 0.1 MILWeight: 38.3 ozReticle: MIL-XT / MOAR optionsLegendary tracking accuracyExceptional glass clarityRugged build for magnum recoilPremium price pointSlightly heavy for field carry
Magnification: 5-25xObjective: 56mmTube: 35mmReticle: TMR / Tremor 3 (FFP)Adjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 30 ozLightweight for its classCrystal-clear HD glassReliable zero stop and locking turretsEye box is slightly tighter at max zoom
Magnification: 6-36xObjective Lens: 56mmFocal Plane: FFPTube Size: 34mmAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 45 ozUltra-clear HD glassHighly tactile turret adjustmentsLifetime warrantyExpensiveSlightly heavy for hunting use
Magnification: 5-25xObjective: 50mmFocal Plane: FFPTube: 34mmAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 36 ozDurable constructionCrisp, illuminated reticleExcellent tracking performanceSlight tunnel effect at low magnification
Magnification: 7-35xObjective: 56mmTube: 34mmAdjustment: 0.1 MILReticle: VPR MILWeight: 39 ozAffordable for its capabilitiesExcellent turret feelClear glass for the price rangeSlight chromatic aberration at high power
Magnification: Opt for 5-25x or higher for long-range precision. The Lapua excels beyond 1000 yards, so you’ll want power to see your target clearly.Tube Diameter: 34mm or 35mm tubes offer superior internal adjustment range—ideal for dialing elevation at extreme distances.Reticle Type: Choose an FFP (First Focal Plane) reticle with MIL or MOA hash marks for accurate holdovers.Turret Quality: Look for tactile, audible clicks with a zero stop system.Durability: Ensure the scope can handle recoil and maintain zero under repeated magnum firing.
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5 Best Scope for Lapua 338: Precision Optics for Extreme Long-Range Shooting
When shooting a powerhouse cartridge like the .338 Lapua Magnum, precision optics are essential. Finding the best scope for Lapua 338 is not just about magnification—it’s about glass quality, turret reliability, durability, and repeatable tracking under the punishing recoil of this elite long-range round.
In this comprehensive review, I’ve tested several high-end scopes to determine which optics can truly unlock the Lapua’s 1500+ yard potential.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Lapua 338 of 2025
Here are my top picks for the best scope for Lapua 338:
1. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1
The NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1 is widely regarded as the gold standard in precision optics for heavy magnums like the .338 Lapua. With its flawless mechanical precision, superior ED glass, and exceptional tracking, it delivers the clarity and repeatability required for mile-long engagements.
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The ATACR’s glass clarity remains sharp even at max magnification. Edge-to-edge resolution is outstanding, with minimal chromatic aberration. Eye relief is generous and consistent, even during heavy recoil.
The turrets feature crisp, tactile clicks with a solid ZeroStop system that’s easy to configure. During my tests on a Savage 110 Elite Precision .338 Lapua, I was able to track true at every elevation dial—critical for 1000+ yard hits.
After 300 rounds, zero retention remained flawless. I tested this scope under fog, rain, and dusk conditions—image transmission remained among the best I’ve seen.
Verdict: For shooters who demand absolute precision and military-grade durability, the ATACR is my top choice.
2. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Riflescope
The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 is an ultra-precise scope engineered specifically for long-range sniping and competitive precision shooting. It offers a massive 35mm tube, remarkable optical clarity, and an intuitive elevation turret system.
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The Mark 5HD provides bright, crisp images thanks to its Twilight Max HD Light Management System, perfect for early morning or dusk shooting. On my Ruger Precision Rifle chambered in .338 Lapua, the scope zeroed in three shots and held perfectly for 200 rounds.
Turrets have an excellent tactile feel, and the M5C3 zero lock system prevents accidental adjustments. Its parallax knob works smoothly, offering fine control for long-distance targets.
Verdict: A balance of military-grade durability and optical excellence, the Mark 5HD is ideal for long-range shooters who prioritize both weight savings and reliability.
3. Vortex Razor HD Gen III
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III is a benchmark for high-end tactical optics, offering elite optical performance and flawless tracking. Built for extreme range, it’s one of the most robust and optically superior scopes in Vortex’s lineup.
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Glass clarity is unmatched, even at 36x magnification. The reticle is crisp, and color fidelity is excellent. The Razor handled recoil on my Barrett MRAD .338 Lapua without losing zero over 400 rounds.
Turret adjustments are positive and audible, and parallax correction works from 25 yards to infinity. The EBR-7D reticle in FFP is highly functional for ballistic holds and wind corrections.
Verdict: Perfect for extreme-range shooters, the Razor HD Gen III stands out as a professional-grade optic with phenomenal clarity and bulletproof reliability.
4. Trijicon Tenmile FFP Riflescope
The Trijicon Tenmile FFP delivers long-range precision in a rugged housing. Built with military heritage, it combines sharp optical quality and intuitive controls ideal for the .338 Lapua.
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Pros:
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The glass quality is vivid, with impressive light transmission. Eye relief is generous, even with heavy recoil. On my Accuracy International AXMC .338 Lapua, zeroing was straightforward and consistent.
Trijicon’s turrets are solid and dependable, with crisp clicks and tactile feedback. Its illumination is daylight-bright yet subtle enough for low-light precision.
Verdict: A fantastic option for shooters who need military-grade durability combined with optical refinement.
5. Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2 7-35x56 FFP Long Range Precision Rifle Scope
For shooters seeking premium performance without the elite price tag, the Arken EP5 Gen 2 7-35x56 FFP is a tremendous value. It’s built for precision and performs exceptionally well for .338 Lapua applications.
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Pros:
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Mounted on a Bergara B14 HMR .338 Lapua, I achieved sub-MOA groupings at 800 yards. The zero stop works flawlessly, and the parallax and magnification controls are smooth. While the glass isn’t quite at the level of the Razor or ATACR, it easily competes with scopes twice its cost.
Verdict: The Arken EP5 Gen 2 is the ultimate budget-friendly long-range scope for .338 Lapua shooters who want premium features without a four-figure investment.
How to Choose the Right Scope for .338 Lapua Magnum
Selecting the right scope for .338 Lapua depends on your shooting purpose:
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for .338 Lapua Magnum? Ideally, 5-25x or higher. Long-range shooters often prefer 7-35x for maximum clarity at 1000+ yards.
2. Should I choose FFP or SFP for .338 Lapua? FFP is preferred because reticle subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels—crucial for precise long-range holds.
3. Can a budget scope handle .338 Lapua recoil? Only a few can. The Arken EP5 Gen 2 is one of the rare budget scopes proven to maintain zero under Lapua recoil.
4. What reticle style is best for long-range shooting? A MIL-based reticle with windage and elevation hash marks helps manage bullet drop and wind drift effectively.
5. What is the effective range of a .338 Lapua Magnum? With proper optics and ammunition, it can remain supersonic beyond 1600 yards.
6. How important is turret tracking? Extremely important—at these ranges, poor tracking means consistent misses. Always test your scope with a box test.
7. Which scope offers the best value? For professionals, the NightForce ATACR; for serious enthusiasts, the Arken EP5 Gen 2.
Conclusion
The .338 Lapua Magnum is an elite cartridge demanding equally elite optics. Whether you’re a long-range competitor, tactical marksman, or precision hunter, pairing your rifle with the right glass transforms performance. From the uncompromising NightForce ATACR to the value-driven Arken EP5 Gen 2, these scopes represent the best scope for Lapua 338 platforms available today. Choose based on your budget, range, and mission—and you’ll unlock the full ballistic potential of this legendary cartridge.
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